Ark Restaurants Announces Financial Results for the First Quarter of 2026

Feb 9, 2026 4:20 PM Eastern Standard Time

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ark Restaurants Corp. (NASDAQ:ARKR) today reported financial results for the first quarter ended December 27, 2025.

"The current quarter Earnings before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization ("EBITDA"), as adjusted, of $1,529,000, increased approximately $150,000 as compared to EBITDA, as adjusted, of $1,378,000 in the prior year comparable quarter and Net income attributable to Ark Restaurants Corp. for the current quarter was $896,000 or $0.25 per basic and diluted share compared to net income of $3,164,000 or $0.88 per basic and diluted share, in the prior year comparable quarter," said Michael Weinstein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "As stated in prior quarters, our business, both catered events and a la carte, at the Bryant Park Grill & Café continued to suffer due in large part to the uncertainty of our lease situation which has created confusion in the marketplace as many visitors and residents were led to believe that the restaurant was closed. In addition, the D.C. market has been a difficult environment for us and most restaurants, but we remain committed to this location. The rest of our portfolio performed well. Significantly, our operations at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas continued to show increased cash flow despite lower customer traffic on the Las Vegas Strip. Our Rustic Inn property in Florida and Robert in NYC continue to perform better than last year and the rest of our portfolio restaurants continue to meet expectations. Further, our balance sheet remains strong, supporting future growth."

Financial Results

As of December 27, 2025, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $9,139,000 and total outstanding debt of $2,987,000.

Total revenues for the 13 weeks ended December 27, 2025 were $40,749,000 versus $44,988,000 for the 13 weeks ended December 28, 2024. The 13 weeks ended December 28, 2024 includes revenues of $998,000 related to the Tampa Food Court which was closed on December 19, 2024. Excluding revenues related to the Tampa Food Court, revenues for the 13 weeks ended December 28, 2024 were $43,990,000.

Excluding revenues related to the Tampa Food Court, Company-wide same store sales decreased 7.3% for the 13 weeks ended December 27, 2025, as compared to the same period of the prior year. This decrease is attributable primarily to decreases in both catering and a la carte revenue at the Bryant Park Grill as a result of the negative publicity related to our dispute with the landlord and lower revenues at our America property in Las Vegas as a result of partial closure for renovations.

The Company's EBITDA, as adjusted, for the 13 weeks ended December 27, 2025 was $1,529,000 versus $1,378,000 for the 13 weeks ended December 28, 2024. Net income attributable to Ark Restaurants Corp. for the 13 weeks ended December 27, 2025, was $896,000 or $0.25 per basic and diluted share compared to net income of $3,164,000 or $0.88 per basic and diluted share for the 13 weeks ended December 28, 2024.

EBITDA is a Non-GAAP Financial Measure, accordingly, please see the table attached to this news release for the details of the adjustments made in arriving at EBITDA, as adjusted, for each period presented and "Non-GAAP Financial Information" at the end of this news release.

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4×4 Capital Acquires Bob Evans Restaurants, LLC from Golden Gate Capital to Enhance Growth

February 5, 2026

New York, NY (RestaurantNews.com) 4×4 Capital (‘4×4’), a leading investment platform focused on creating value for middle market companies in consumer goods and services, today announced the acquisition of Bob Evans Restaurants from Golden Gate Capital. The transaction underscores the enduring value of the Bob Evans Restaurants business and aims to maximize its long-term growth potential.

Born on a farm in Rio Grande, Ohio, in 1948, Bob Evans Restaurants is a family-style restaurant chain known for its farm fresh ingredients and hospitality. The brand offers high-quality, farm fresh food at a great value for families nationwide. The all-American family dining brand has more than 400 locations employing over 15,000 people in 18 States. The brand’s dedication to community engagement through farming and neighborhood initiatives remains a cornerstone of its identity.

CEO Mickey Mills and her team will continue to lead the company to serve customers as they have proudly done for the past 78 years. 4×4 Co-Founder & Partner Gustavo Assumpção will serve as Executive Board Chair.

4×4 Capital has a strong track record of investing in and accelerating growth across the food and beverage sector through a value-creation playbook rooted in active ownership and close partnership with leadership teams.

“We are proud of what we accomplished in partnership with Golden Gate Capital and excited to begin this next chapter with 4×4’s hands-on partnership. Together, we look forward to investing in and enhancing our operations, guest experience, and brand – with a continued focus on stability, partnership, and long-term value creation,” said CEO Mickey Mills.

“What truly sets the Bob Evans brand apart is its distinctive hospitality, welcoming ambiance, and fresh, flavorful food – delivering real value for the whole family. We look forward to partnering with Mickey and the team to maximize long-term growth,” commented Gustavo Assumpção, Executive Board Chair and 4×4 Co-Founder & Partner.

“We are truly grateful to the terrific team at Bob Evans for their strong stewardship of this iconic brand. We wish the team all the best as they enter their next phase of growth,” said Neale Attenborough, Managing Director at Golden Gate Capital.

Kroll’s Restaurant & Retail Investment Banking practice served as the exclusive advisor to Bob Evans Restaurants. Piper Sandler & Co. acted as advisor to 4×4 Capital.

About Bob Evans Restaurants, LCC

Rooted in the agricultural heritage of founder Bob Evans, whose humble Farmhouse Kitchen laid the foundation for our restaurants over 70 years ago, Bob Evans continues to embody the spirit of farm-fresh ingredients and hospitality today. Today’s Bob Evans Farmhouse Kitchen remains true to tradition, utilizing fresh ingredients and fresh preparation in every dish across our nearly 420 locations in 18 states. From the classic Farmer’s Choice Breakfast to the slow-roasted, hand-carved turkey dinner, each bite reflects our dedication to delivering America’s Farm Fresh at every meal, every day. For more information and restaurant locations, visit BobEvans.com, download the Bob Evans app on iOS and Android, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

About 4×4 Capital

4×4 Capital is a New York-based investment firm focused on creating value for middle market companies across the Consumer Goods, Consumer Services, and Consumer Adjacencies sectors in North America. Founded in 2018, the firm takes an active ownership approach to investing, combining deep operational expertise with a systematic value-creation playbook to help companies unlock long-term growth and operational excellence. 4×4 Capital has a proven investment and operational track record across multi-billion-dollar businesses worldwide. Visit 4x4capital.com for more information.

About Golden Gate Capital

Golden Gate Capital is a San Francisco-based private equity firm focused on partnering with management teams to build exceptional consumer, industrials, technology, and financial services companies. Since its founding in 2000, the firm has managed approximately $20 billion in cumulative committed capital. For more information, visit GoldenGateCap.com.

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Good Times Restaurants Reports Results for the 2026 First Fiscal Quarter Ended December 30, 2025

Feb 5, 2026 4:05 PM Eastern Standard Time

DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Good Times Restaurants Inc. (Nasdaq: GTIM), operator of the Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar and Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard restaurant brands, today reported financial results for the 2026 first fiscal quarter.

Key highlights of the Company’s financial results include:

Total Revenues for the quarter were $32.7 million
Same Store Sales1 for company-owned Bad Daddy’s restaurants decreased 1.2% for the quarter compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2025 and for Good Times restaurants decreased 3.1% for the quarter compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2025
Net Income Attributable to Common Shareholders was $0.2 million ($0.02 per share) for the quarter
Adjusted EBITDA2 (a non-GAAP measure) was $1.3 million for the quarter
The Company ended the quarter with $3.3 million in cash and $1.8 million of long-term debt

Ryan M. Zink, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, said, “I am pleased with our Same Store Sales this quarter, which marks meaningful improvement over our prior quarter. The first fiscal quarter included a traditional thirteen weeks this year, one fewer than last year’s fourteen weeks. I am proud of our ability to generate similar Net Income, in light of the eight percent reduction in restaurant operating weeks resulting from the calendar shift, compared to the prior fiscal quarter. Restaurant level controls, including both cost of sales and cost of labor, have been the result of a heightened sense of cost containment and more aggressive negotiations with our vendor partners which is translating into increased profitability.”

Mr. Zink continued, “Increasing guest traffic at both brands continues to be our top priority. At Good Times, we recently completed the transition from cook-and-hold, to cook-to-order for all of our burgers, including a new cheese melting process which will deliver a significantly better product to our guests, without incurring any additional labor costs. At the same time, we improved our beef grind and have increased the size of our patty to deliver greater value to the guest. This burger style distances us from mainline QSR and improves our ability to compete with new market entrants into the front range communities. We will be messaging our improved burgers through a variety of digital media over the next quarter.”

“At Bad Daddy’s, we have seen marked improvement in traffic at our Colorado restaurants, which were notably soft in fiscal 2025 compared to the rest of the system. We will be shifting our quarterly multi-product LTO strategy to a single monthly food feature in March, which we expect to increase frequency among our loyal guests, and also provide us with a format in which to feature a broader range of burgers and sandwiches, while at the same time providing greater ability to operationalize overlapping short shelf life promotions. This approach facilitates promotional items that have broader guest appeal and at a greater variety of price points, enabling us to simultaneously deliver on value for the guest, strong item-level margin and cost metrics, and more frequent ‘new news’ to message to our guests. I am optimistic about our sales projections for both concepts and the resulting ability to meaningfully improve on profit measures during the fiscal year,” Zink concluded.

Conference Call: Management will host a conference call to discuss its fiscal 2026 first quarter financial results on Thursday, February 5, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. MT/5:00 p.m. ET. Hosting the call will be Ryan M. Zink, its Chief Executive Officer and Keri A. August, its Chief Accounting Officer.

The conference call can be accessed by registering online at Q1 2026 GTIM Earnings Call and you will be provided with dial in details. The live webcast will be accessible from the Company's investor relations website on the Events page. An archive of the webcast will be available at the same location on the corporate website shortly after the call has concluded.

About Good Times Restaurants Inc.: Good Times Restaurants Inc. owns, operates, and licenses 38 Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar restaurants through its wholly owned subsidiaries. Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar is a full-service “small box” restaurant concept featuring a chef-driven menu of gourmet signature burgers, chopped salads, appetizers and sandwiches with a full bar and a focus on a selection of craft beers in a high-energy atmosphere that appeals to a broad consumer base. Additionally, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Good Times Restaurants Inc. owns, operates and franchises 30 Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard restaurants primarily in Colorado. Good Times is a regional quick-service concept featuring all-natural burgers and chicken sandwiches, signature wild fries, green chili breakfast burritos and fresh frozen custard desserts.

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MGM Resorts International Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Results

Feb 05, 2026, 16:15 ET

Global portfolio strength drives growth in 2025
4Q25 consolidated net revenues of $4.6 billion, net income attributable to MGM Resorts of $294 million, and Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA of $635 million, representing growth of 6%, 87%, and 20%, respectively
BetMGM North America Venture distributed $135 million to MGM Resorts during 4Q25, returning over 20% of MGM Resorts' cash investment, with future distributions expected
Repurchased 15 million shares in 4Q25 and 37.5 million in 2025, reducing shares outstanding by ~48% since the beginning of 2021

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) ("MGM Resorts" or the "Company") today reported financial results for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2025.

"MGM Resorts once again saw the benefit of a diversified operational strategy, delivering Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA growth of 20% in the fourth quarter despite headwinds in Las Vegas," said Bill Hornbuckle, President and CEO of MGM Resorts International. "As we enter 2026, we are full of optimism for the future driven by the solid base of group and convention business and the completion of the MGM Grand renovations in Las Vegas, continued solid and unwavering results in our Regional Operations, premium mass leadership position at MGM China, double digit revenue growth in BetMGM North America Venture, and an international pipeline of long-term growth with MGM Osaka."

"In 2025, we drove important financial stewardship initiatives, including sourcing low cost of debt capital for MGM Osaka, driving $135 million in distributions from our BetMGM North America Venture and $153 million from MGM China, announcing the sale of the Northfield Park operations at a significant premium to our Las Vegas and Regional brick and mortar operations multiple, and repurchasing over $1.2 billion in shares," said Jonathan Halkyard, CFO of MGM Resorts International. "The aggregate impact of these financial initiatives positions MGM Resorts with consistent sources of cash flow to fund future growth and deliver significant value for our shareholders."

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Nathan's Famous, Inc. Reports Third Quarter Results

February 05, 2026 06:30 ET

JERICHO, N.Y., Feb. 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nathan's Famous, Inc. (“Nathan’s”, the “Company”, “we”, “us” or “our”) (NASDAQ:NATH) today reported results for its third fiscal quarter ended December 28, 2025.

For the thirteen-week period ended December 28, 2025 (“third quarter fiscal 2026”):

Revenues were $34,312,000 as compared to $31,519,000 during the thirteen weeks ended December 29, 2024;
Income from operations was $5,127,000 as compared to $6,752,000 during the thirteen weeks ended December 29, 2024;
Adjusted EBITDA1, a non-GAAP financial measure, was $5,967,000 as compared to $7,479,000 during the thirteen weeks ended December 29, 2024;
Income before provision for income taxes was $4,748,000 as compared to $6,059,000 during the thirteen weeks ended December 29, 2024;
Net income was $3,084,000 as compared to $4,484,000 during the thirteen weeks ended December 29, 2024; and
Earnings per diluted share was $0.75 per share as compared to $1.10 per share during the thirteen weeks ended December 29, 2024.

For the thirty-nine weeks ended December 28, 2025 (“fiscal 2026”):

Revenues were $126,997,000 as compared to $117,395,000 during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024;
Income from operations was $25,420,000 as compared to $30,129,000 during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024;
Adjusted EBITDA1, a non-GAAP financial measure, was $27,778,000 as compared to $32,110,000 during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024;
Income before provision for income taxes was $24,026,000 as compared to $26,942,000 during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024;
Net income was $17,211,000 as compared to $19,791,000 during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024; and
Earnings per diluted share was $4.17 per share as compared to $4.84 per share during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024.

The Company also reported the following:

License royalties decreased to $28,993,000 during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 28, 2025, (“fiscal 2026 period”) as compared to $29,517,000 during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024. During the fiscal 2026 period, royalties earned under the retail agreement, including the foodservice program, from Smithfield Foods, Inc., decreased 2% to $26,315,000 as compared to $26,751,000 of royalties earned during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024.
In the Branded Product Program, which features the sale of Nathan’s hot dogs to the foodservice industry, sales increased by $10,090,000 to $81,871,000 during the fiscal 2026 period as compared to $71,781,000 during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024. The volume of hot dogs sold by the Company increased by 1%. Our average selling price, which is partially correlated to the beef markets, increased by approximately 12% compared to the prior year period. Income from operations decreased by $2,955,000 to $2,451,000 during the fiscal 2026 period as compared to $5,406,000 for the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024, due primarily to a 19% increase in the cost of beef and beef trimmings.
Sales from Company-owned restaurants were $11,256,000 during the fiscal 2026 period as compared to $11,351,000 during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024. Restaurant sales were primarily impacted by a 2% decline in customer traffic offset, in part, by a 1% increase in average check.
Revenues from franchise operations were $3,372,000 during the fiscal 2026 period as compared to $3,238,000 during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024. Total royalties were $3,045,000 during the fiscal 2026 period as compared to $2,944,000 during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024. Franchise restaurant sales increased by $1,878,000 to $54,278,000 as compared to $52,400,000 for the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024.2 Total franchise fee income, including cancellation fees, was $327,000 during the fiscal 2026 period as compared to $294,000 during the thirty-nine weeks ended December 29, 2024. Eighteen franchised locations opened during the fiscal 2026 period. Twenty-three franchised locations closed during the fiscal 2026 period.
During the fiscal 2026 period, we recorded Advertising Fund revenue of $1,505,000 and expense of $1,626,000.
During the fiscal 2026 period, the Board of Directors declared and paid three regular quarterly cash dividends of $0.50 per share totaling $6,134,000 and one special cash dividend of $2.50 per share totaling $10,224,000.
Effective February 5, 2026, as permitted under the Merger Agreement (as defined below) the Board of Directors declared its regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.50 per share payable on February 27, 2026 to shareholders of record at the close of business on February 17, 2026.

As previously announced, on January 20, 2026, Nathan's entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement") with Smithfield Foods, Inc. ("Smithfield Foods") and Boardwalk Merger Sub Inc. under which Smithfield Foods will acquire Nathan's for $102.00 in cash per share of Nathan's common stock for a total enterprise value of approximately $450 million, and Nathan's will become a privately-held company. The closing of the transaction is expected to occur in the first half of 2026, subject to satisfaction of certain conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, including obtaining approval by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Nathan’s common stock, expiration or termination of the applicable waiting period under the Hart-Scott Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended, approval from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), and other customary closing conditions.

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RAVE Restaurant Group, Inc. Reports Second Quarter 2026 Results

February 05, 2026 09:01 ET

DALLAS, Feb. 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RAVE Restaurant Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: RAVE) today reported financial results for the second quarter of fiscal 2026 ended December 28, 2025.

Second Quarter Highlights:

The Company recorded net income of $0.6 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2026, a 4.9% increase from the same period of the prior year.
Income before taxes increased by 12.1% to $0.8 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2026 compared to the same period of the prior year.
Total revenue increased by $0.2 million to $3.0 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2026 compared to the same period of the prior year, a 6.0% increase.
Adjusted EBITDA increased by $0.1 million to $0.9 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2026 compared to the same period of the prior year, a 5.3% increase.
On a fully diluted basis, net income per share was $0.04 for the second quarter of fiscal 2026, the same as it was in the same period of the prior year.
Pizza Inn domestic comparable store retail sales increased 2.5% in the second quarter of fiscal 2026 compared to the same period of the prior year.
Pie Five domestic comparable store retail sales decreased 1.5% in the second quarter of fiscal 2026 compared to the same period of the prior year.
Cash and short-term investments totaled $10.9 million on December 28, 2025.
Pizza Inn domestic unit count finished the quarter at 97, including 82 buffet locations. There were three new buffet openings and no buffet closures during the second quarter.
Pizza Inn international unit count finished the quarter at 19.
Pie Five domestic unit count finished the quarter at 16.

“Quarter Two represented our 23rd consecutive quarter of profitability as we continue to execute on our Mission 2030 strategy delivering profitable growth,” said Brandon Solano, Chief Executive Officer of RAVE Restaurant Group, Inc.

“We opened three new Pizza Inn buffet restaurants in the second quarter demonstrating the commitment Rave has made in growing the Pizza Inn buffets is bearing fruit," continued Solano. “Excellent planning and execution from our Development, Training, and Operations teams allowed the three successful openings to occur over a three-week period, something that Pizza Inn hasn’t done in over 20 years, giving me confidence that we will be able to open restaurants at scale in the future."

Solano added, “While the restaurant industry on a whole faces sluggish growth and pressure on sales and traffic, Pizza Inn continues to grow both unit count and same store sales. We followed positive 8.1 percent domestic same store sales growth in the first quarter with positive 2.5 percent domestic same store sales growth in the second quarter. We are continuing to aggressively compete for every guest in the third quarter with over half of the Pizza Inn buffet restaurants running our widely successful All You Can $8 value driven promotion, that was formerly known as I $8 at Pizza Inn, in January with some restaurants signed up to continue later into the quarter.”

Chief Financial Officer Jay Rooney added, “We are pleased with the financial position Rave is in after stellar quarter two results driven by quality earnings from the sales increase at Pizza Inn. Pie Five same store sales improved from their trend but were still negative. While the impact of Pie Five on overall Rave results continues to decrease, the Rave management team is dedicated improving the brand’s performance with the introduction of new advertising, product innovation, operational efficiency, and pricing initiatives. The continued profitability of both brands has created a solid Rave balance sheet with no debt and high liquidity thus well positioning us for the future.”

View full version at Rave Restaurant Group

Feb 03, 2026, 16:10 ET

LAUNCHES "RECIPE FOR GROWTH" STRATEGY TO GROW TRANSACTIONS AND DRIVE ACCURACY, EFFICIENCY AND SPEED

FULL YEAR TOTAL REVENUE INCREASED 5.4% TO $11.9 BILLION

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) today reported financial results for its fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2025.

Fourth quarter highlights, year over year:

Total revenue increased 4.9% to $3.0 billion
Comparable restaurant sales decreased 2.5%
Operating margin was 14.1%, a decrease from 14.6%
Restaurant level operating margin1 was 23.4%, a decrease from 24.8%
Diluted earnings per share was $0.25, a 4.2% increase from $0.24
Adjusted diluted earnings per share1 remained flat at $0.25
Opened 132 company-owned restaurants, with 97 locations including a Chipotlane, and seven international partner-operated restaurants

Full year 2025 highlights, year over year:

Total revenue increased 5.4% to $11.9 billion
Comparable restaurant sales decreased 1.7%
Operating margin was 16.2%, a decrease from 16.9%
Restaurant level operating margin1 was 25.4%, a decrease from 26.7%
Diluted earnings per share was $1.14, a 2.7% increase from $1.11
Adjusted diluted earnings1 per share was $1.17, a 4.5% increase from $1.12
Opened 334 company-owned restaurants, with 257 locations including a Chipotlane, and 11 international partner-operated restaurants

"Through our proven business model, prudent investments in operational excellence and the support of a strong balance sheet, 2025 was a year of progress and resilience for Chipotle. Against a dynamic consumer backdrop, we opened a record number of restaurants globally and grew Q4 and full year revenue," said Scott Boatwright, Chief Executive Officer, Chipotle. "This momentum will fuel our next phase of growth, driven by our 'Recipe for Growth' strategy which leans into what uniquely differentiates our brand to accelerate transactions and expand our footprint globally."

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Darden Restaurants Completes Exploration of Strategic Alternatives for Bahama Breeze

Feb 03, 2026, 09:25 ET

ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Darden Restaurants, Inc. ("Darden") (NYSE: DRI) today announced that it has completed its exploration of strategic alternatives for Bahama Breeze. Previously, the company announced that the Bahama Breeze brand, and its 28 locations, were no longer a strategic priority and that it would consider strategic alternatives, including a potential sale of the brand or converting restaurants to other Darden brands.

The company has now determined that it will permanently close 14 Bahama Breeze restaurants and plans to convert the remaining 14 locations into another Darden brand. The company does not expect these actions to have a material impact on its financial results.

The 14 restaurants designated for permanent closure are expected to continue operating through April 5, 2026. The company anticipates converting the remaining 14 locations over the next 12-18 months. They are expected to continue to operate until any temporary closures are needed for the conversion. At this time, the company is not disclosing the specific Darden brands into which these locations will be converted.

The company believes the conversion locations are great sites that will benefit several of the brands in its portfolio. Going forward, the primary focus will continue to be on supporting team members, including placing as many as possible in roles within the Darden portfolio.

About Darden

Darden is a restaurant company featuring a portfolio of differentiated brands that include Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Yard House, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, The Capital Grille, Chuy's, Seasons 52, and Eddie V's. For more information, please visit www.darden.com.

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Brinker International Reports Second Quarter of Fiscal 2026 Results and Updates Fiscal 2026 Guidance

Jan 28, 2026, 06:45 ET

DALLAS, Jan. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT) today announced its financial results for the second quarter ended December 24, 2025.

Second Quarter Fiscal 2026 Financial Highlights

"Chili's delivered another strong quarter with industry-leading growth of +9%, rolling the industry-leading growth from last year for a 2-year comp sales growth of +43%," said Kevin Hochman, President & CEO of Brinker International. "With 19 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth, Chili's turnaround, led by guest experience improvements, is sustaining over the long-term."

Company comparable restaurant sales increased 7.5% in the second quarter of fiscal 2026, including 8.6% for Chili's. Chili's strong performance in the quarter was the result of growth in its customer base, ongoing innovation in the business, and disciplined execution. Menu enhancements and competitive pricing, coupled with ongoing advertising initiatives, continued to strengthen the Company's value proposition and attract new guests, while improved restaurant operations remained a driver of repeat visits. Leveraging higher sales, the Company improved margins at Chili's, supported ongoing investments in the business and repurchased $100.0 million of the Company's common stock during the quarter. At Maggiano's, the focus is executing to improve performance and operations through the Company's Back to Maggiano's strategy. The strategy includes in-flight initiatives across food, service, and atmosphere with the aim of revitalizing the brand's core, serving Italian American favorites with warm and attentive service.

Comparable Restaurant Sales include restaurants that have been in operation for more than 18 full months. Restaurants temporarily closed for 14 days or more are excluded from comparable restaurant sales. Percentage amounts are calculated based on the comparable periods year-over-year.

Full Year Fiscal 2026 Guidance, including impact of Winter Storm Fern

We are raising our guidance to reflect a stronger sales and profit outlook for Chili's through the end of the fiscal year. This upward revision includes the negative impact from closures and reduced operating hours caused by Winter Storm Fern – which includes approximately $20.0 million in reduced revenues and a decrease of $0.15 in Net income per diluted share, excluding special items, non-GAAP, as of January 27, 2026. The risks outlined in the Forward-Looking Statements paragraph of this press release, among other risks, could cause actual results to differ materially from forecasted results.

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FAT Brands Inc. Files Voluntary Chapter 11 Petitions to Bolster Capital Structure

January 26, 2026 21:51 ET

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: FAT) (the “Company”), today announced it has commenced voluntary chapter 11 proceedings in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas. FAT Brands plans to use the filings to deleverage the balance sheet, maximize value for its stakeholders, and support continued growth of its brands.

FAT Brands’ portfolio of 18 restaurant concepts encompasses more than 2,200 locations worldwide. Iconic brands such as Fatburger, Johnny Rockets, Round Table Pizza, among others, are expected to remain operating as usual during the chapter 11 process, and will continue to provide their signature dining experiences. Trading of FAT Brands’ securities on NASDAQ is expected to continue with a “Q” suffix during this period.

"Our dynamic portfolio of brands has demonstrated tremendous resilience in a challenging restaurant operating environment over the last few years. We are well positioned for long-term profitability and growth. The chapter 11 process will provide us with the opportunity to strengthen our capital structure to support our concepts and ensure they remain at the forefront of their sectors,” said Andy Wiederhorn, CEO of FAT Brands. “We plan to use this process to connect with key stakeholders around a value-maximizing plan and will act prudently to remain steadfast in upholding and protecting stakeholder interests. Our focus in this process remains providing quality service to our customers and supporting our franchise partners and the over 45,000 corporate and franchise employees.”

Bankruptcy Court filings and other information about the claims process and proceedings can be found at a separate website maintained by the Company’s proposed claims and noticing agent, Omni Agent Solutions, Inc., at https://omniagentsolutions.com/FatBrands-TwinHospitality.

Latham & Watkins LLP is serving as legal counsel to the Company. GLC Advisors & Co., LLC is serving as investment banker, Huron Consulting Services LLC is serving as financial advisor, and Omni Agent Solutions, Inc. is serving as claims, noticing and solicitation agent.

About FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands
FAT Brands (NASDAQ: FAT) is a leading global franchising company that strategically acquires, markets, and develops fast casual, quick-service, casual dining, and polished casual dining concepts around the world. The Company currently owns 18 restaurant brands: Round Table Pizza, Fatburger, Marble Slab Creamery, Johnny Rockets, Fazoli’s, Twin Peaks, Great American Cookies, Smokey Bones, Hot Dog on a Stick, Buffalo’s Cafe & Express, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Pretzelmaker, Elevation Burger, Native Grill & Wings, Yalla Mediterranean and Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, and franchises and owns over 2,200 units worldwide. For more information on FAT Brands, please visit fatbrands.com.

View source version at FAT Brands

Twin Hospitality Group Files Voluntary Chapter 11 Petitions to Strengthen Capital Structure

January 26, 2026 21:55 ET

DALLAS, Jan. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Twin Hospitality Group Inc. (Nasdaq: TWNP), the parent company of Twin Peaks Restaurant, today announced it has commenced voluntary chapter 11 proceedings in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas. Twin Hospitality plans to use the filings to deleverage the balance sheet, maximize value for its stakeholders, and support the continued growth of its brands.

Twin Hospitality develops and operates the specialty casual dining restaurant concepts, Twin Peaks and Smokey Bones. Throughout the chapter 11 process, Twin Hospitality expects the brands will remain open and operating as usual and will continue delivering their signature guest experiences. Trading of Twin Hospitality Group’s securities on NASDAQ is expected to continue with a “Q” suffix during this period.

"Twin Peaks has redefined the sports bar experience and built an iconic and highly profitable business. We are confident that the brand remains positioned for meaningful global expansion in the years to come,” said Andy Wiederhorn, CEO of Twin Hospitality. “The chapter 11 process will enable us to strengthen our balance sheet and create financial flexibility to advance this growth. We plan to use this process to connect with key stakeholders around a value-maximizing plan and will act prudently to remain steadfast in upholding and protecting stakeholder interests. Our focus in this process remains providing quality service to our customers and supporting our franchise partners and the thousands of corporate and franchise employees.”

Bankruptcy Court filings and other information about the claims process and proceedings can be found at the separate website maintained by the Company’s proposed claims and noticing agent, Omni Agent Solutions, Inc., at https://omniagentsolutions.com/FatBrands-TwinHospitality.

Latham & Watkins LLP is serving as legal counsel to the Company. GLC Advisors & Co., LLC is serving as investment banker, Huron Consulting Services LLC is serving as financial advisor, and Omni Agent Solutions, Inc. is serving as claims, noticing and solicitation agent.

Twin Hospitality Group Inc.
Twin Hospitality Group Inc. is a restaurant company that strategically develops and operates specialty casual dining restaurant concepts with a goal to redefine the casual dining category with its experiential driven brands. For more information, visit https://ir.twinpeaksrestaurant.com/.

About Twin Peaks
Founded in 2005 in the Dallas suburb of Lewisville, Twin Peaks has 114 locations in the U.S. and Mexico. Twin Peaks is the ultimate sports lodge featuring made-from-scratch food and the coldest beer in the business, surrounded by scenic views and wall-to-wall TVs. At every Twin Peaks, guests are immediately welcomed by a friendly Twin Peaks Girl and served up a menu made for MVPs. From its smashed and seared-to-order burgers to its in-house smoked brisket and wings, guests can expect menu items that satisfy every appetite. To learn more about franchise opportunities, visit twinpeaksfranchise.com. For more information, visit twinpeaksrestaurant.com.

About Smokey Bones
The ‘Masters of Meat,’ Smokey Bones is a full-service restaurant delivering great barbecue, award-winning ribs, crave-worthy cocktails, and memorable moments. Smokey Bones serves lunch, dinner, and late night every day. Smokey Bones also has a full bar featuring a variety of bourbons and whiskeys; a selection of domestic, import, and local craft beers; and signature, handcrafted cocktails.

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Smithfield Foods to Acquire Iconic Hot Dog Brand Nathan’s Famous

January 21, 2026 06:45 ET

Secures Rights to Sell and Market Iconic All-Beef Hot Dog Brand into Perpetuity
Strengthens Ability to Grow Nathan’s Famous Brand Across Retail and Foodservice Channels
Transaction Immediately Accretive

SMITHFIELD, Va., Jan. 21, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Smithfield Foods, Inc. (Nasdaq: SFD) (“Smithfield Foods” or “Smithfield”), an American food company and an industry leader in value-added packaged meats and fresh pork, and Nathan’s Famous, Inc. (Nasdaq: NATH) (“Nathan’s Famous”), today announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement for Smithfield Foods to acquire all of Nathan’s Famous’ issued and outstanding shares for $102.00 per share in cash, which represents an enterprise value of approximately $450 million1.

Since March 2014, Smithfield Foods has held an exclusive license from Nathan’s Famous within the United States, Canada and Sam’s Clubs in Mexico for Smithfield to manufacture, distribute, market and sell “Nathan’s Famous” branded hot dogs, sausages, corned beef and certain other ancillary products through the retail channel, and to manufacture and distribute “Nathan’s Famous” branded hot dog and sausage products for the foodservice channel. The license is scheduled to expire in March 2032.

Successfully closing the acquisition will secure Smithfield’s rights to this iconic brand into perpetuity and enable it to maximize the Nathan’s Famous brand growth across the retail and foodservice channels.

“The Nathan’s Famous acquisition is a meaningful step in the progression of Smithfield Foods allowing us to own all of the top brands in our Packaged Meats portfolio and unlock new growth opportunities for our largest segment,” said Smithfield President and CEO Shane Smith. “Since entering into our licensing agreement in 2014, we have made significant investments to build and grow the Nathan’s Famous brand. With our manufacturing scale, marketing strength, product innovation capabilities, and retail and foodservice channel expertise, acquiring Nathan’s Famous will allow us to take the brand to new heights.”

The transaction represents a valuation of approximately 12.4x Nathan’s Famous’s LTM adjusted EBITDA2 and a multiple of approximately 10.0x post-synergies. Smithfield Foods expects to achieve annual cost synergies of approximately $9 million by the second anniversary of the deal closing.

Eric Gatoff, CEO of Nathan’s Famous said, “This combination is a natural fit and provides a compelling valuation for Nathan’s Famous stockholders. As a long-time partner, Smithfield has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to investing in and growing our brand while maintaining the utmost quality and customer service standards.”

The acquisition of Nathan’s Famous will be immediately accretive to Smithfield’s adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to Smithfield and is expected to bolster its growth strategy by:

securing long-term sales and cash flows from the iconic Nathan’s Famous brand into perpetuity;
driving growth of the high margin Packaged Meats segment by harnessing the powerful Nathan’s Famous brand and fueling it with an expanded portfolio of innovative products that build customer awareness across Smithfield’s well-established retail and foodservice sales channels;
increasing foodservice sales volume by placing this channel under the direct management of Smithfield’s expert team and leveraging Smithfield’s established, scaled infrastructure; and
improving operating efficiencies by generating anticipated annual run-rate cost synergies of approximately $9 million by the second anniversary of the transaction closing.

Transaction Timing and Details

Under the terms of the definitive merger agreement, Smithfield Foods will acquire all of Nathan’s Famous’ issued and outstanding shares of its common stock for $102.00 per share in an all cash transaction.

The Board of Directors of Nathan’s Famous approved the merger agreement with Smithfield Foods and agreed to recommend that the Nathan’s Famous stockholders vote to adopt the merger agreement.

The transaction is not subject to a financing contingency and will be funded by cash on hand. The closing of the transaction is expected to occur in the first half of 2026, subject to satisfaction of certain conditions set forth in the merger agreement, including obtaining approval by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Nathan’s Famous common stock, expiration or termination of the applicable waiting period under the Hart-Scott Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended, approval from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), and other customary closing conditions. The definitive merger agreement permits the Nathan’s Famous’ Board of Directors to declare and pay two regular quarterly cash dividends during the period pending closing.

Members of the Nathan’s Famous Board of Directors who in the aggregate own or control approximately 29.9% of the outstanding shares of Nathan’s Famous common stock have entered into a voting agreement pursuant to which they have agreed, among other things, to vote their shares of common stock of Nathan’s Famous in favor of the transaction.

Advisors

Goldman Sachs acted as financial advisor to Smithfield Foods and Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP acted as legal counsel. Jefferies acted as financial advisor and Akerman LLP acted as legal counsel for Nathan’s Famous.

About Smithfield Foods
Smithfield Foods, Inc. (Nasdaq: SFD) is an American food company with a leading position in packaged meats and fresh pork products. With a diverse brand portfolio and strong relationships with U.S. farmers and customers, we responsibly meet demand for quality protein around the world. For more information about Smithfield please visit www.smithfieldfoods.com.

About Nathan’s Famous

Nathan’s Famous, Inc. (Nasdaq: NATH) is a Russell 2000 company that currently distributes its products in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and 21 foreign countries through its restaurant system, foodservice sales programs and product licensing activities. For additional information about Nathan’s Famous please visit its website at www.nathansfamous.com.

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OneRyan Global Acquires Controlling Interest in Mr Gatti's Pizza

Jan 21, 2026, 14:30 ET

Leadership team will remain as G. Brint Ryan and Amanda S. Ryan join the Board of Managers as Chairman and Vice Chairwoman, respectively

DALLAS, Jan. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Mr Gatti's Pizza, the iconic Texas-born pizza and entertainment brand, announced today that Dallas-based OneRyan Global LLC, the family office of businessman and philanthropist G. Brint Ryan, has acquired a controlling interest in the Mr Gatti's brand. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The acquisition follows OneRyan's purchase of the corporate-owned Mr Gatti's restaurant at South Park Meadows in Austin, Texas, last October. That transaction completed the Company's transition to a 100% franchised system, concluding the re-franchising of all corporate-owned locations. OneRyan also owns the Mr Gatti's Family Entertainment Center in Big Spring, Texas.

Ryan will serve as Chairman and Amanda S. Ryan will serve as Vice Chairwoman of the Board of Managers. Mr Gatti's corporate headquarters will remain in Fort Worth and the leadership team will remain in place, including Jim Phillips as CEO and KC Mann as Chief Financial Officer. No changes to the senior management team are anticipated.

"Our deep appreciation for the Mr. Gatti's brand, combined with our firsthand experience operating locations across multiple markets, made this acquisition a natural and exciting opportunity," said Amanda S. Ryan, CEO of OneRyan. "Mr. Gatti's has built a category-leading platform in dining and family entertainment, supported by an exceptional network of franchisees. We look forward to helping the brand continue to grow and thrive."

"Brint is an exceptional leader with enormous respect for the heritage of Mr. Gatti's," said Phillips. "He brings a compelling vision for the brand's future, along with the expertise needed to help us reach our full potential. We are excited to have his leadership both as an owner-operator and as Chairman as we enter this next phase of growth."

To learn more about Mr Gatti's Pizza franchise opportunities visit, https://gattispizzafranchise.com

About Mr Gatti's Pizza

Mr Gatti's Pizza, originally launched as The Pizza Place in Stephenville, Texas, in 1964, underwent a transformation when it relocated to Austin in 1969. Along with the move came a significant rebranding, adopting the name "Gatti" in homage to the maiden name of founder James Eure's wife. The 1970s marked a period of rapid expansion for the chain, as it pioneered the combination of high-quality dining and entertainment under one roof. Mr Gatti's Pizza has received several industry awards, including the Nation's Restaurant News 100 Under 100 in 2024 and 2025, Technomic Top 500, Pizza Market Place Top 100 Movers and Shakers in 2024 and 2025, ranked No. 8 on the Global Franchise Power List in 2024, and named a Top Brand by Franchise Times Top 400 in 2024. Today, Mr Gatti's is a beloved name in the regions in which it operates, embodying James Eure's vision across more than 200 active and forthcoming locations in Texas and the Southeastern U.S. For more details, visit mrgattispizza.com or contact us at 817-546-3500.

About OneRyan Global

Founded by Amanda S. Ryan in 2018, OneRyan Global, LLC ("OneRyan"), is the family office of Ryan LLC Founder, Chairman, and CEO, G. Brint Ryan and his family. OneRyan, which supports the investment, philanthropic, and personal needs of the Ryan family, manages a wide range of investments and business interests including real estate, hospitality, private equity, and various operating companies.

View source version at Mr Gatti’s Pizza

Meritage Announced 2025 Preliminary Unaudited Results; 2026 Outlook: Sales and Margin Recovery

January 19, 2026 16:45 ET

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Jan. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Meritage Hospitality Group Inc. (OTCQX: MHGU), one of the nation’s premier franchise operators, today reported preliminary financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 28, 2025, ahead of presenting at the Sidoti Micro-Cap Conference.

2025 Full-Year Highlights:

Sales were $617.7 million compared to $668.8 million last year.
Earnings (Loss) from Operations were $(22.9) million compared to $13.3 million last year (current year included one-time and non-cash charges of $13.7 associated with pre-opening & costs related to the closure of 21 underperforming restaurants).
Net Earnings (Loss) was $(26.3) million compared to $8.0 million last year.
Consolidated EBITDA (Loss), a non-GAAP measure, was $(6.8) million compared to $42.4 million last year.
Restaurants in Operation 365 compared to 379.

2025 Fourth Quarter Highlights:

Sales were $145.0 million compared to sales of $168.7 million for the same period last year.
Loss from Operations were $(15.7) million compared to $(2.3) million for the same period last year (current year included one-time and non-cash charges of $10.6 million associated with pre-opening & costs related to the closure of 21 underperforming restaurants).
Net Earnings (Loss) was $(13.4) million compared to $5.2 million for the same period last year.
Consolidated EBITDA (Loss), a non-GAAP measure, was $(12.3) million compared to $13.7 million for the same period last year.

In 2025 the Company experienced margin compression driven by record high prime cost (food, paper and labor) led by beef inflation and elevated discounting. Looking ahead, in 2026 we see substantial EBITDA recovery as significant cost saving initiatives materializing, and new product innovations come to market. Additionally, we see the potential for reduced product costs with lower beef tariffs and the potential opening of the US border to Mexico for cattle imports which could materially alter the beef cost outlook. “I cannot say enough about the work our restaurant leaders have done to combat outside cost pressures and improve productivity. We had a once-in-a-quarter century margin compression last year, driven by unusual protein inflation and operational disruptions that created a timing mismatch between sales, costs and pricing actions. Looking ahead, we believe Wendy’s will deliver wins in 2026 with more innovation around chicken and marketing” stated Meritage CEO, Robert E. Schermer, Jr.

The Company expects to gain leverage from general and administrative cost reductions as well as operational efficiencies including pattern of management, technology and delivery options designed to improve four wall economics and customer experience. The company ended the year with 365 restaurants across 15 states including the Company’s Morning Belle restaurants, its breakfast/brunch/lunch concept that delivered +8.7% of same restaurant sales in 2025.

Initial Fiscal 2026 Outlook: A Margin Recovery Story:

Sales of $610 million to $620 million
Earnings from Operations $6.0 to $7.0 million
EBITDA $18.0 to $20.0 million
Restaurants in Operation 355

The Company’s strategic priorities are focused on leveraging cost savings and returning to normalized margins in our restaurant operating platform.

About the Company:

Meritage Hospitality Group is one of the nation’s premier restaurant operators, currently with 365 restaurants in operation located in Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. Meritage is headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, operating with a workforce of over 10,000 employees. At fiscal year-end 2025, the Company had total weighted average fully diluted common shares outstanding of 6,681,000.

The Company’s current and publicly available information pursuant to amended SEC Rule 15c2-11 and FINRA Rule 6432 can be found at www.otcmarkets.com, under the stock symbol MHGU/Disclosures or the Company’s website, www.meritagehospitality.com.

View source version at Meritage Hospitality Group

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Financials - February 2026